PRITCHARD ON VERGE OF THE BRITISH TITLE

Escort man will be crowned if he finishes Trackrod Historic Cup

Jason Pritchard and Phil Clarke only need to finish this weekend’s Trackrod Historic Cup to retain the Mintex MSA British Historic Rally Championship.

After three non-finishes in a row mid-season, Pritchard stormed back into contention with a perfect double on the Isle of Man and is now in control heading for the finale in the Yorkshire forests.

If Pritchard fails to finish, Paul Barrett will take the title, but the Northern Irishman has elected to miss the Trackrod as he has little chance of improving his overall score.

“It’s all to play for now,” said Pritchard. “We’ve got to finish the Trackrod and that is easier said than done. We’ve got to keep our heads and go at a pace that is comfortable and not repeat last year.” A year ago, with the title secure, Pritchard rolled out of the Trackrod when caught out by bumps on the approach to the wood yard in Dalby.

“It’s all about Jason finishing,” said Barrett. “I can’t beat him unless he doesn’t finish the rally, but when there is no pressure, that’s when mistakes can happen. So it’s not over just yet.”

Barrett confirmed that saving the cost of entering the event will be a boost for his 2017 campaign when he plans to contest the BHRC with a fresh Escort Mk2 and BDG power for the first time, rather than the Pinto engine used this season.

With class and category points, as well as bonus start points, Pritchard and Clarke will be champions simply by finishing the rally.